Blueberry Thyme Soap - Stormy Ocean Wave!

Blueberry Thyme Soap - Stormy Ocean Wave!

I saw this recipe online at one of my favorite soaping sites, and thought it was so pretty I must give it a try.  It has all the great ingredients of a good homemade, handmade soap like, castor oil, coconut oil, olive oil, palm oil, sweet almond oil and sunflower oil.  I loved the texture that the added red sandalwood powder gives, and of course, the blueberry thyme fragrance is just delightful.

My soap didn't turn out quite as pretty as it should have because I neglected to read the instructions carefully enough and I added too much black oxide making the soap much darker in color than it should have been.  Hence the name Stormy Ocean Waves.

It was fun to make, it's always fun to try out a new soap recipe.  The excitement of having to wait to unmold and cut into bars to see how it turned out makes the process so much fun.

Blueberry Thyme Soap - Stormy Ocean Wave!

I have this loaf for sale at the Shelby, NC Foothills Farmer's Market.  Stop by and give us a look see.

Carpe Diem! Lil and Bill

Goat Milk Spa Soap with Charcoal and Rose Kaolin Clay

Here it is, the face soap that will be great for your skin and will complete the facial care system we have happening here on Wit's End Farm Blog.  The basis of all good skincare is clean skin, and I said I was coming up with a good soap that includes Kaolin Clay that will help to draw out the impurities from deep within your skin.  Here it is.  We have been using it here for a while, and all reports are in with a grade of A+.

Goat Milk Spa Soap with Charcoal and Clay

This soap starts out with a basic goat milk soap recipe, then we add in the activated charcoal and the kaolin rose clay.  The fragrances in this soap are just divine.  You can just imagine being transported to the most luxurious spa you've ever experienced, while staying right there in your own home.  And, it's so much less costly!

Let's look at the benefits of the ingredients in this soap:

Goat Milk

Goat Milk:  Goat milk soap is wonderful for people with dry or sensitive skin, or conditions such as eczema and psoriasis. It is also perfect for healthy skin that wants to stay that way. Unprocessed, raw goat milk contains the following benefits:  (1) Goat's milk contains precious skin loving minerals like selenium and  (2) it is loaded with vitamins, particularly vitamin A, the most important vitamin for the skin.  (3) As with other milks, goat's milk contains lactic acid, which is an alpha hydroxy acid, or AHA.  It is both an anti-aging wonder and a lifesaver for dry and sensitive skin.

Activated Charcoal

Mint Emulsified Sugar Scrub

Mint Emulsified Sugar Scrub

Let me start out by saying that I love, love, love this scrub.  I have made many a scrub, but this one tops them all.  It's a gentle scrub, great for the face, and leaves your skin feeling soft and slightly energized.  The fragrance is soft and delicate, and the sugar provides a gentle scrub.  I found the recipe on one of my favorite supply websites, Wholesale Supplies Plus.  It's a winner in my book, and here's why:

Avocado Oil

• Avocado Oil:  I've extolled the benefits of this wonderful fruit oil before, but it's so good I'll share it again.  Cold pressed avocado oil is one of the richest sources of beneficial monounsaturated fatty acids like oleic acid.  Not only is avocado oil extremely good at hydrating and softening your skin, it is often recommended as an effective treatment for acne and blackheads, eczema and other forms of skin inflammation.  It's an excellent source of antioxidants, essential fatty acids, minerals, and vitamins. It also facilitates in the healing of scars, diminishing of spots, removal of stretch marks and shrinking of large pores. Avocado oil can increase collagen, reduce wrinkles, and heal damaged skin.  The avocado, actually a fruit, is rich in proteins and fats, sterolin, lecithin and potassium. The natural oils in an avocado can penetrate deep into the skin, helping to soften and hydrate dry and flaky patches.

Mango Butter

• Mango Butter:  Mango Butter is extracted from the fruit kernels of the mango tree. Pure Mango Butter is thought to exhibit excellent moisturizing properties while countering the drying effects of bar soaps and cleansers! Mango Butter is well suited for use in homemade sugar scrubs, lotion bars, soaps, cuticle creams and more!  In skin care, we love mango butter for its moisturizing essential fatty acids. It's rich in oleic acid, a mono-unsaturated omega-9 acid; and stearic acid, a saturated fatty acid. These are ingredients that the skin readily recognizes, absorbs, and uses to help add moisture to the skin.  It both tightens and firms while providing super nourishment to the skin.

Lavender Clay Face Mask

Lavender Clay Face Mask

Most facial masks that I've used leave my skin feeling dry and taught, or the more gentle ones don't seem to do much.  I have a recipe for a facial mask that is so gentle, but still very effective, that you may want to use it every day, but probably don't need to.  It's full of nourishing ingredients along with ingredients that will pull impurities from your skin without leaving it dry or taught.  Lavender Clay Face Mask has the ingredients that will increase collagen and reduce wrinkles, it will ease inflammation and moisturize, it won't clog pores, and will prevent free radical damage, it absorbs excess oils and stale sebum, and helps to prevent aging via magnesium.  Simply apply to a clean and dry face, wait for it to dry, twenty to thirty minutes, then rinse off and apply moisturizer.  May I recommend my Revitalizing Night Cream!  I love the way my skin has responded to these latest products.

Let's take a look at what's in this little amazing jar:

Avocado Oil

• Avocado Oil:  Cold pressed avocado oil is one of the richest sources of beneficial monounsaturated fatty acids like oleic acid.  Not only is avocado oil extremely good at hydrating and softening your skin, it is often recommended as an effective treatment for acne and blackheads, eczema and other forms of skin inflammation.  It's an excellent source of antioxidants, essential fatty acids, minerals, and vitamins. It also facilitates in the healing of scars, diminishing of spots, removal of stretch marks and shrinking of large pores. Avocado oil can increase collagen, reduce wrinkles, and heal damaged skin.  The avocado, actually a fruit, is rich in proteins and fats, sterolin, lecithin and potassium. The natural oils in an avocado can penetrate deep into the skin, helping to soften and hydrate dry and flaky patches.

Argan Oil

Revitalizing Night Cream

Revitalizing Night Cream

We have a new baby born here on the Farm!  No, it's not what you are thinking, but it is still very exciting!  I haven't made a new face cream in quite a long while.  I've been feeling like I needed something different, something better.  So, I hit the Internet and began to look around for some new and better ingredients that would do what I needed them to do.  And, voila, here it is!

Revitalizing Night Cream is exactly what it's name says it to be.  After cleansing my face at night and applying the new cream to my face, I woke up the next morning in love with my skin.  I am excited to see where this cream will take me.  I believe it's the best face cream I have made, and far better than much of what is available out there in the retail market place, and a far better value.

Come along with me and let's look at some of the ingredients in this little miracle-like jar:

The Aloe Vera Leaf

• Aloe Vera Juice:  To start, there's no plain distilled water in this formula.  I decided to see how much better it might be if I used all Aloe Vera Juice to replace the water.  We all know the benefits of Aloe Vera to the skin., it treats sunburn, it acts as a moisturizer, it treats acne, it fights aging, it lessens the visibility of stretch marks, it's nutrient rich for good health, it soothes in periodontal disease, it aids in digestion.  Aloe Vera has wound healing and anti-inflammatory properties that help to reduce skin inflammation and promote the growth of new cells.

The Jojoba Plant

Headache Relief Ointment

So, are you tired of taking pills to get relief from those nagging headaches?  Me too.  I have discovered a formula that may be helpful to you.  It's an all natural and chemical free application.  It works on tension headaches, sinus related headaches, allergy headaches, migraine headaches, and is said to work on that 'time-of-the-month' headache also.  I don't know about you, but I'm game to try anything natural that will help relieve a headache that is not a pill.

Headache Relief Ointment

The practice of using essential oils is thought to stretch back to ancient cultures, including the Egyptians, Greeks, and Chinese, with each society contributing. Several oils specifically have shown promise in alleviating headache pain. These oils work by reducing inflammation, reducing stress or anxiety, encouraging healthy sleep habits, managing hormone levels, and minimizing sinus pressure or allergies.

Let's look at what's in this little bottle, and why and how it works:

• Mid Chain Triglycerides Liquid - This is a liquid oil derived from Coconut Oil. It is comprised of short chain fatty acids, and is extremely stable with an almost indefinite shelf life. It's an excellent emollient that provides a smooth and silky feel. It is a non-greasy oil that is easily absorbed into the skin. It's all natural, yay!  It works as a great carrier for essential oils.

Coconut Oil

• Peppermint Essential Oil - Migraine.com says that Peppermint Essential Oil is known to be both calming and numbing. It is believed that these properties cause it to be beneficial for people who suffer from migraines and other types of headaches.  For some people, applying Peppermint Essential Oil to the forehead and temples serves as a natural medication for migraines or other types of headaches.  Applying to the base of the neck can be helpful for alleviating some tension headaches. 

Peppermint

Vitamin Hydrating Spritzer!

Vitamin Hydrating Spritzer

This is the latest and newest product to come from the farm!  I think I am going to love this new product that can be used throughout the day to refresh, moisturize, tighten and revitalize your face. You can spritz it on clean skin, moisturized skin, and also over your foundation while you're at work, shopping, eating out, or just hanging at home.  I have mine right on my side table, and reach for it several times a day.  I love the fragrance, and the soft dewy feeling it gives my skin, not to mention the amazing anti-aging benefits.

Let me tell you what is inside this little wonder bottle.  It is just full of good things for your face.

Rosewater is made from the rose petals

Rose water:  It has anti-inflammatory properties, helps with acne, dermatitis and eczema, helps to maintain skins pH balance, helps to heal scars, cuts, and wounds, aids in removing oil and dirt accumulated in clogged pores, helps to tone and cool the skin.  It has been said that Cleopatra used it to keep her skin dewy and supple during her reign.

Homemade In-Shower Moisturizer!

This is a wonderful, carefree style moisturizer that works quite nicely along with our Ocean Breeze Dead Sea Salt Soap, which is, incidentally, a beautiful exfoliating soap bar.  They're both scented mildly with coconut fragrance that can whisk you away to the sea shore for a relaxing moment in time.

In-Shower Moisturizer!

This lotion works right in the shower while your skin is still full of moisture from your shower. Just put it on while you're still wet, massage it in, then rinse off and gently pat dry. It's chock full of good, wholesome ingredients that will pamper your skin after an invigorating scrub with either our Ocean Breeze Soap, or anything else such as a loofah, etc.  

Now let's move on to discussing the ingredients and their absolutely glorious benefits to you:

Apricot Kernel Oil is a lightweight oil that is high in Vitamin A, rich in Oleic Acid and Linoleic Acid. It has an excellent texture that is great for all skin types. It exhibits skin softening, moisturizing properties and is therefore recommended for skin that is dry, irritated or has prematurely aged.

Apricots and their Kernels

DIY Summer Feet Foot Balm is Back!

I'm re-blogging a previous post as Spring is just around the corner, which means us ladies will be breaking out those sandals once again.  When I first began constructing this formula, I found that it had a bit of a grainy texture.  It didn't affect the performance of the product, but it could feel unpleasant to some.  I have since learned how to avoid having that happen.  I won't bore you with the details, but it has to do with the shea butter being melted and cooled in a specific way.  This is a product that I use faithfully, and think you may want to give it a try.

Here's a quick note on how to easily use this product:  Get about a dime's size in the palm of your hand and rub hands together to emulsify, then apply to clean damp feet with a massaging motion. Step on a towel or mat for a moment, or put on a pair of socks or slippers, and your feet will thank you!

Summer Feet Foot Balm!

My niece asked me a few months ago if I had a product specifically for feet.  I did not at that time.  Which got me to thinking about how everyone loves my Cuticle Cream, and how I love the way it makes my cuticles, and lips, feel so soft and healthy.  Even though I regularly used a callus remover tool, my feet were not in great shape.  I refuse to wear sandals unless my feet look good.  Since I've had my hip replaced, the Doctor and the nurses suggested I stay away from getting pedicures at nail salons to avoid the chance of infection.  So, I decided to use my Cuticle Cream as a jumping off point, and see what I could do to make a great foot balm.

I am extremely pleased with the results.  I made it softer and easier to spread, and added some great essential oils to make those tired feet feel invigorated, renewed, and pampered.  The only thing I will do different next time is to blend just a bit better as I can feel that the oils and the harder butters and beeswax have separated a little. You can barely see the polka dots on the surface in the photos. Those areas are a little softer than the rest.  But, it all gets mixed up as you apply.

Homemade Ocean Breeze Dead Sea Salt Soap

I first saw this soap on Pinterest posted by Rebecca's Soap Delicatessen, and I immediately liked the idea of a salted soap. Unlike my standard shampoo bars, this one is a simpler soap, but with the added benefit of salt nutrition and exfoliation by the way of Dead Sea Salt. So, I decided to give it a try, and my version of it is this one.

It's made with coconut oil, olive oil, palm oil, and shea butter.  Added right at the end is a handful of Dead Sea Salt for the nutrition and exfoliation benefits and then sprinkled on the top to make for a beautiful soap bar that is so good for your skin. According to the San Francisco Salt Co., "Dead Sea Salts contain 21 minerals including magnesium, calcium, sulfur, bromide, iodine, sodium, zinc and potassium. These essential minerals naturally occur in our bodies but must be replenished, as they are lost throughout the day. These minerals are known to treat, detoxify, and cleanse our bodies."  

Handmade Rose Petal Soap!

A Beautiful Rose!

Roses. What woman doesn't love roses...the fragrance, the beauty, the softness of the petals. I think that roses are one of the most beautiful flowers on earth!  I love getting roses from the love of my life.  I love getting any flowers at all, from anyone at all, but, there's just something very special about a vase full of roses.

The sad part comes for me when they're spent and it's time to throw them away. I tend to keep them way beyond the last vestures of beauty because I resist parting with them.  Well, my friends, I have discovered a way that we can keep our roses and enjoy their lingering fragrance and delicate softness for months and months while using them to pamper ourselves and benefit our skin.

Handmade Rose Petal Soap!

To clarify, this is not a soap recipe or a tutorial on how to make soap.  This is a couple of ideas for you to incorporate into your very own soap recipes if you so desire.  

DIY Happy Hens Herbal Mix!

Oh my goodness, it smells so good!  I love mixing up these herbs and giving it to my girls every day.

I have found that the hens love this nesting box mixture of herbs I have concocted with the help of Treats For Chickens.  I purchased their Nesting Box Blend, and loved it so much that I determined to figure out how to make something like it.  It smells so good, and helps to keep away mites, lice, and other pests, like spiders and mice who don't like the scent of mint.  I just sprinkle a pinch or so into their nesting boxes daily. You can also sprinkle it around the perimeter of the coop if you need a little extra protection against those pests.  It's a great little extra I enjoy doing for them just to say thanks when I collect their eggs each day.  Who wouldn't want to snuggle down into a cozy bed of fresh hay that smells of lavender, mint, eucalyptus, etc.?

7 oz. Jar of Herbal Mix

I love chickens!  My hens are special to me.  They provide my family with eggs, plus some extra to sell to help offset the cost of their feed.  Poultry is a fairly easy backyard hobby that can be very rewarding.

Homemade DIY 'Summer Feet' Foot Balm!

Summer Feet Foot Balm!

My niece asked me a few months ago if I had a product specifically for feet.  I did not at that time.  Which got me to thinking about how everyone loves my Cuticle Cream, and how I love the way it makes my cuticles, and lips, feel so soft and healthy.  Even though I regularly used a callus remover tool, my feet were not in great shape.  I refuse to wear sandals unless my feet look good.  Since I've had my hip replaced, the Doctor and the nurses suggested I stay away from getting pedicures at nail salons to avoid the chance of infection.  So, I decided to use my Cuticle Cream as a jumping off point, and see what I could do to make a great foot balm.

I am extremely pleased with the results.  I made it softer and easier to spread, and added some great essential oils to make those tired feet feel invigorated, renewed, and pampered.  The only thing I will do different next time is to blend just a bit better as I can feel that the oils and the harder butters and beeswax have separated a little. You can barely see the polka dots on the surface in the photos. Those areas are a little softer than the rest.  But, it all gets mixed up as you apply.

Homemade Cuticle Cream/Balm

Homemade Cuticle Cream/Balm

I discovered this cuticle and nail cream quite by accident.  You may remember the painter/instructor Bob Ross who used to have a TV series on teaching how to paint with oils.  I always enjoyed watching him because he made it look so easy.  I'm not a painter by any stretch of the imagination, so the way he painted looked like magic to me.  He always said that there were no mistakes in painting, only "happy accidents".  Well, this product is a "happy accident".

It started out as a lip balm, but the flavor and color weren't working well for me.  So, one day I was in the car going somewhere and noticed my cuticles looked a bit dry.  While applying the lip balm, I decided to put it on my nails, and, surprise, a great cuticle cream was born!

Outrageous DIY Anti-Aging Face Serum!

This is the latest of the greatest, my new Outrageous line!  This product has the best of the best ingredients that I could find.  I'm looking forward to this formulation doing great things.  Here's what is in it:

Outrageous Anti-Aging Face Serum!

• Emu Oil benefits are known throughout the world through scientific study and testimonials of happy customers. Research and history show that Emu oil has been used for thousands of years as a natural medicine by the Aborigines of Australia. It was used for arthritis pain relief, to heal wounds, burns, sunburns, and to reduce the pain, itch and swelling of insect bites and stings.  Scientific studies of Emu Oil indicate that it has healing properties in many different ways.   Emu oil has been shown to reduce the depth and length of fine lines and wrinkles in many studies as well as being moisturizing as a natural skin softener. It has been proven to be the fastest and most penetrating oil for the skin, as well as a transdermal carrier for any other added therapeutic ingredients for skin care.  Emu Oil is gentle for all skin types, non-toxic and natural, non-comedogenic (does not clog pores) and hypo-allergenic (non-irritating), so it is great for people with sensitive skin and allergies. Emu Oil is effective in its anti-inflammatory properties.  It's been compared to medication such as ibuprofen, except without the negative side-effects frequently common with traditional prescription or corticosteroid based anti-inflammatory medications.  Emu oil comes from the backfat of emus, having a lot of fatty acids including omega-6 and omega-3.  It also contains Vitamins A and E which are known for helping maintain the skin.